Graphical Abstract:

Abstract:

A rapid search in scientific publication’s databases shows how the use of CRISPR-Cas
genome editions’ technique has considerably expanded, and its growing importance, in modern molecular
biology. Just in pub-med platform, the search of the term gives more than 3000 results. Specifically,
in Drug Discovery, Medicinal Chemistry and Chemical Biology in general CRISPR
method may have multiple applications. Some of these applications are: resistance-selection studies
of antimalarial lead organic compounds; investigation of druggability; development of animal models
for chemical compounds testing, etc. In this paper, we offer a review of the most relevant scientific
literature illustrated with specific examples of application of CRISPR technique to medicinal
chemistry and chemical biology. We also present a general overview of the main legal and ethical
trends regarding this method of genome editing.

Current Topics in Medicinal Chemistry

Affiliation:Department of Public Law, Law and the Human Genome Research Group, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, 48940, Leioa, Biscay

Keywords:CRISPR-Cas, Drug discovery, Gene editing legal issues.

Abstract:A rapid search in scientific publication’s databases shows how the use of CRISPR-Cas
genome editions’ technique has considerably expanded, and its growing importance, in modern molecular
biology. Just in pub-med platform, the search of the term gives more than 3000 results. Specifically,
in Drug Discovery, Medicinal Chemistry and Chemical Biology in general CRISPR
method may have multiple applications. Some of these applications are: resistance-selection studies
of antimalarial lead organic compounds; investigation of druggability; development of animal models
for chemical compounds testing, etc. In this paper, we offer a review of the most relevant scientific
literature illustrated with specific examples of application of CRISPR technique to medicinal
chemistry and chemical biology. We also present a general overview of the main legal and ethical
trends regarding this method of genome editing.